Siphonaje

Siphonaje is the Spanish term for siphonage, the process of transferring liquids by means of a siphon. In simple terms, a siphon is a tube that connects two vessels at different heights, filled with liquid so that gravity can drive flow from the higher to the lower container.

Operation relies on priming the tube, filling it with the liquid and sealing it so air cannot interrupt the column. Once the outlet is opened below the source, the liquid begins to flow and continues as long as the outlet remains lower than the source and the tube remains filled without air gaps. The flow is driven by gravity and atmospheric pressure, not by pumps.

The practical height of a siphon is limited by atmospheric pressure. For water at sea level, the maximum vertical rise of the liquid column is about 10 meters; higher columns would cavitate as vapor pressure prevents continuous flow. Factors such as fluid density, viscosity, tube diameter, length, temperature, and the presence of air leaks influence the flow rate and can terminate siphoning if air interrupts the liquid column.

Common applications include draining containers, transferring fuels or liquids in automotive and industrial contexts, irrigation, aquarium maintenance, and laboratory experiments. In plumbing, siphons help promote gravity-driven drainage while allowing traps and vents to limit odors and backflow.

To prevent unwanted siphoning, devices such as anti-siphon valves or air breaks are used, especially in potable water systems, to protect against backflow and contamination. Etymology traces siphonage to the word siphon, with roots in French, Latin, and Greek terms for tube or pipe.

See also: siphon, siphon tube, backflow preventer, check valve.